Abstract

Alternating current impedance of magnesium/manganese dioxide dry cells has been measured under conditions that do not harm the protective passive film on the magnesium electrode. Several electrical equivalent-circuits for the cell have been theoretically analysed, and a comparison of theoretically derived criteria with experimental results has led to the choice of the most suitable model. In principle, the methodology of measurement and analysis can be applied to other battery systems that involve reactive metals covered by protective films, in order to obtain information on the electrochemical properties of the film-covered metal/solution interface under non-destructive conditions.